6. EDSR 10-11-2010ITEM ~6.
MEMORANDUM
TO: Economic Development Authority
FROM: Jeremy Barnhart, Planning Manager
DATE: October I I , 20 I 0
SUBJECT: Focused Area Study Implementation
This memo is intended as an update on the status of the implementation of the Focused
Area study.
Regulatory changes. Staff is preparing zoning ordinance amendments that would codify the
regulatory changes suggested by the FAST study. Staff anticipates the Planning Commission
reviewing it at their October 26`" worksession, with formal review expected to follow in
November. A component of the zoning ordinance amendment will include design
standards, which will be patterned after the Downtown Standards but with wider
applicability.
Infrastructure. Staff is currently working on the development of several options relative to
infrastructure improvements, and anticipates a joint City Council/ Economic Development
meeting in the near future (likely November 8th) to discuss these options. The goal behind
this process is to allow the Council to determine the most appropriate way to position the
area for growth. This positioning is seen by staff as a key issue toward the ultimate
marketability of the area. Staff is currently meeting with professionals in the development
field to get a better understanding of the issues observed from the "private sector" side of
the development equation.
Property acquisition. Staff has begun internal discussions on identifying parcels necessary
toward the implementation of the FAST study. The goal behind this plan is that should
parcels become marketed for sale; the City has an evaluation tool in which to consider these
parcels, given the limited funds available. These parcels may include those necessary fox
road or highway improvements, storm water, wetland/greenway preservation, or utility
easements. This plan will be forwarded to the EDA and City Council for further discussion,
likely this winter.